Mumbai: Friendship is perhaps the most beautiful bond after a mother and child’s relationship. Friends make life blissful and their presence makes a huge difference in our lives. They share not just our moments of ecstasy but take equal part in fighting our agonies. They are the pillars on whom our life stands strong and tall.

Friendship day (August 7, 2016) is just around the corner and on this occasion, we will take you through five things that you mustn’t ever do to your friend.

Sadly, in this age when human emotions are gradually dissolving owing to a mechanical lifestyle, friendship has experienced its share of side-effects.

Here are the things you must not do to a friend:

Body Shaming: We must never take the liberty of indulging in body shaming just because we share a great relationship with our friend. Unfortunately, in a world where beauty is just skin deep, even friendship falls victim to body shaming. Love, respect and admire your friend for who he or she is and not for what he/she looks like.

Never discourage or demotivate: Your friend looks up to you for help, guidance and support. Unless he/she is on the verge of doing something unethical or illegal, do not discourage or demotivate him/her. Help your friend in building confidence in self and do all what you can to help him/her discover his/her strengths.

Never let their secrets out: Never spill your friend’s secrets to someone else. This would mean a clear breach of trust. Your friend shares his/her deepest secrets with you since he/she has faith in you. Do not break their faith.

Never be a fair-weather friend: If you connect with your friend only in times of need or when circumstances are pleasant in your favour then you wouldn’t be doing justice to the bond that you claim to be a part of. You must never turn into a fair-weather friend ever.

Never let money matters ruin your friendship: If you have lent money to your friend, and if he or she has not been able to return the same owing to genuine reasons, never make him feel embarrassed or uncomfortable. At the same time, avoid encouraging your friend by lending money to him/her quite often so as to help him/her become financially independent and self-sufficient.